South America.
Some of the best moments in our lives have been in South America, so it is a place that holds many special memories for us.
From partying with fans from around the world during the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, to spending a 30th birthday in Torres del Paine, Chile, and getting engaged on the hike up to Laguna de los Tres, Argentina, it’s safe to say we feel a very special connection to this part of the world.
South America Travel Guides
How to plan a visit to South America…
Why visit South America?
South America is a continent of great diversity and natural beauty. There are many countries to visit and you will find something for everyone!
You'll find relaxing summer holidays with glorious sunshine, but also amazing hiking and winter sports for those who like more active adventure. There are many places to visit for different budgets, and you can travel like a local; it is easy to get around on buses, with both long and short distance travel by public transport easily achievable.
There are amazing landscapes, to explore, like the sweeping vistas of the Andes, star-filled desert skies and dense, lush jungle, wetlands and rainforest that are filled with spectacular wildlife.
Beautiful cities are aplenty, from metropolises like Buenos Aires and Bogota to places dominated with colonial architecture, like Uruguay's Colonia del Sacramento.
Culturally, South America is a very diverse continent, blending indigenous culture with Latin, European and African influences to create distinctive music, architecture, dance, literature and food cultures, all waiting to be discovered!
What countries are in South America?
The countries in South America are: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay and Venezuela.
There are also the territories of French Guiana, Falkland Islands and South Georgia.
What is the best time to go to South America?
The size of South America and the different geographical landscapes means there is a place to visit at any time of year.
Unlike places like Europe, seasons are a bit more complex in South America and factors like altitude and geographical landscape result in differing hot or rainy seasons across the continent. Seasons are more defined the more south you get, and places close to the equator will see less seasonal variation.
Consider the location you are visiting for choosing the best time, for example explore Patagonia in spring and summer to make sure hiking paths are clear of snow, and if you want to hike the Inca Trail avoid February, when the monument is closed.
In general, the best value can be found in the shoulder seasons of the place you want to visit, and generally speaking Spring is September to November and Autumn is March to May.
Summer (December to February) will bring more people and higher prices, but summer in Europe and America (June to August) can also lift prices and crowds.
Winter (June to August) generally means end to wet seasons, better snow sports and good Inca Trail conditions - book in advance at this time! It's also prime season for wildlife spotting in areas like Brazil's Pantanal wetlands.
Our planning advice is to either pick a place and be flexible on dates, or pick a date and be flexible on place! If you’re planning a long trip of several months or more, make peace with the fact it won’t be the best season everywhere you go, but there will still be plenty to experience and you can benefit from lower prices and less crowds.
What are the best places to visit in South America?
South America is a continent packed with adventure and excitement. From the desert to the jungle, there are many world famous sites that would make any bucket list. Here are just five, but there are so many more!
Play with perspective at Bolivia's Salt Flats - Salar de Uyuni.
Discover a wildlife paradise at the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.
Hike the Inca Trail to one of the world's most important ancient sites Machu Picchu.
Visit Rio de Janeiro during Carnival season.
Take an expedition into the world-famous Amazon jungle or explore one of the continents beautiful National Parks.
Is it safe to travel in South America?
All things considered, South America overall is a safe place to travel. However, like many places in the world, there are areas that are considered more dangerous for tourists and visitors than others.
Some tips which are good to keep in mind when travelling to any place:
Keep an eye on the local news and don't get caught up in protests or rallies.
If you want to go off the beaten track make sure you are well informed and consider having a knowledgable guide with you.
As with visiting any place, keep your valuables concealed and don't show off cash or high value items.
Always be respectful and mindful of local geographies, wildlife and weather conditions - it may be different to what you are used to.
How much money do I need to travel in South America?
This is a difficult question to answer and depends on where you are going and how long you are going to stay.
There is a lot of price variation on the continent. Brazil, Argentina and Chile are roughly equal to travelling in Europe, whereas Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador are considered more budget friendly.
In most places there are options for travellers ranging from budget to luxury. Staying in hostels or camping can help save on costs, but be careful to research and look for recommended tour operators. Don't skimp on price to get a bargain experience when safety is more important!
We were determined to make the most of our last week on the continent, and what a place to spend it! Rio de Janeiro, the "Marvelous City," with its vibrant energy, iconic landmarks, and stunning landscapes.